What stage of Kübler-Ross's grief model involves questioning one's situation and seeking understanding?

The stage of Kübler-Ross's grief model that involves questioning one's situation and seeking understanding is bargaining. During this phase, individuals may attempt to negotiate or make deals in an effort to reverse or change their circumstances. This often takes the form of internal dialogues or pleas, where individuals might ask themselves what they could have done differently to avert loss or suffering, or they may seek reassurance that things will improve. This striving for meaning allows the person to negotiate the emotional turmoil they are experiencing, reflecting a deep desire to regain control or find a sense of hope amidst despair.

In contrast, acceptance denotes the point where individuals come to terms with their loss, while anger typically involves feelings of frustration and helplessness about the situation. Denial represents the initial shock or disbelief following a loss, where individuals may struggle to accept reality. Each step of the model contributes uniquely to processing grief, with bargaining serving as a pivotal moment when the individual actively seeks to understand their situation and explore options for resolution or relief.